Appeal for information following damage to ambulances

The Team from Counties Manukau Police

Counties Manukau Police investigating the wilful damage of a number of Hato Hone St John Ambulances are appealing for any information to assist in our enquiries.

Senior Sergeant Roelof Burger says Police believe the offenders have unlawfully entered the gated yard of St John’s Manukau Station on the corner of Plunket Avenue and Wiri Station Road on Saturday night.

“While in the yard the offenders have punctured five tyres on three vehicles using a sharp object, rendering them inoperable.”

Police are incredibly disappointed with the irresponsible behaviour shown by these individuals.
“These are destructive actions, and consequences of actions such as this can put people’s lives at risk.
As the vehicles are inoperable for a period of time, this impacts St John’s ability to respond to those who are in need of medical attention within our community.”

Andy Everiss, Hato Hone St John, District Operations Manager – Auckland, says it’s disappointing individuals have vandalised the ambulances in an unwarranted attack. “These ambulance vehicles are a vital part of how we continue to support and serve the local community.

“These actions show great disrespect to our people, who rely on these vehicles to do lifesaving work every day. Thankfully, this incident did not severely impact our emergency ambulance response, and we remain available to respond in an emergency.”

Police are conducting enquiries into the incident to identify and locate those responsible, and would like to hear from anyone who may have information in relation to the incident.

“We would also like to hear from anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage in the wider Plunket Avenue and Wiri Station Road areas,” Senior Sergeant Burger says.

Information can be provided to Police online through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.
Please use the reference number P065611930.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.